Louisville Ballet is a company that excels in both classical and contemporary works. They have had a powerhouse season and their final ballet, Cinderella, was an extraordinary closing.

Cinderella is a classic fairy tale that tells the story of a young woman who finds love with the help of a Fairy Godmother and a fabulous shoe. Alun Jones and Helen Starr have created a magical spectacle that had the audience filled with wonder and awe. The sets and costumes were luxurious and the dancing was exquisite. The support of live music performed by the Louisville Orchestra, led by Tara Simoncic, made the entire night a true delight.

Natalia Ashikhmina portrayed the opening night Cinderella and was lovely in the title role. Paired with Kristopher Wojtera, who is retiring from this company and is sure to be missed by Louisville audiences, the couple created a sweet budding romance and, well, a fairy tale. Phillip Velinov and Ballet Master Harald Uwe Kern were hilarious as the step-sisters, stealing almost every scene they were in with their comedic acts. (How does one sauté so high in heels?!) In this telling, there are four fairies who represent the seasons, Spring (Annie Honebrink), Summer (Ashley Thursby), Fall (Kateryna Sellers), and Winter (Leigh Anne Albrechta). Each dancer brought their individual style to the stage with brilliant execution. They are led by Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother portrayed on opening night by Ballet Mistress Helen Daigle who was elegant as always. The rest of the company is not to be overlooked as they danced masterfully.

It was a wonder-filled evening at the ballet. Thank you Louisville Ballet for creating a “happily ever after” night. Bravo!

Valerie Canon is an actor, director, dancer, model, and choreographer based in the Greater Louisville area. Mrs. Canon received her BFA in ballet performance from Oklahoma University in 2004, and has performed in ballets around the country as a principal, soloist, and corps de ballet member. She recently directed Unhindered and Ungendered 2018: Minor Characters/Major Songs for Wayward Actors Company in March 2018.